EXPERT

NOUN: EXPERT   EK SPURT

A PERSON WITH SPECIAL KNOWLWDGE OR ABILITY WHO PERFORMS SKILLFULLY

No matter how strictly regulated, every craft eventually becomes two groups, professionals (majority) and pretenders (minority). 

True experts place integrity and creditability above financial compensation, refusing to prostitute themselves for money.  They are committed to ascertaining facts without bias or prejudices.  Conclusions are reached with proven science, not guesswork.  Many factors determine outcomes of criminal or civil proceedings.  Legal tactics, jury sympathies, judge’s rulings and attorney skill are just a few.  Expert testimony is frequently a small part.  Typically a settlement prior to trial is a business decision based on factors such as litigation cost.  The professional is committed to impartially assisting the client, unconcerned with “wins and losses”.  He testifies truthfully disinterested in the final verdict. 

Pretenders concentrate solely on the outcome.  Winning is everything to the unprofessional.  The record of “wins” is used to impress prospective clients.  This type expert will employ any tactic to accomplish his objective, truth and creditability are the first casualty, objectivity and impartiality the second.  Facts are manufactured to support a predetermined conclusion.  Pretenders can be identified by lack of training and education.  When questioned the “score card” is presented to appear legitimate.  Unable to qualify for membership in organizations accrediting professionals they form rival groups with little or no membership criteria.  Training is often provided to give the appearance of creditability.  In reality this is just another way the pretender fleeces the unsuspecting public.